The TESDA Training Regulations (TR) for Plumbing NC I, II, AND III serve as official guidelines and frameworks to ensure that individuals pursuing a career in plumbing in the Philippines are adequately trained, skilled, and knowledgeable about the various aspects of plumbing work. These regulations are designed to equip learners with the competencies required at different levels of plumbing practice, from basic to advanced skills. Each level, represented by NC I, II, III, and IV, progressively builds on the previous one to develop a more comprehensive skillset for the plumbing profession.
Level NC I is the foundational level of plumbing training. It is designed for individuals who are starting their careers in plumbing and need to gain basic skills and knowledge.
Key Competencies:
Basic Plumbing Installation: Learn how to install basic plumbing systems such as water supply lines, drainage, and venting systems.
Pipe Cutting and Threading: Skills in cutting, threading, and joining pipes.
Fixtures and Fittings: Learn the proper installation of plumbing fixtures like faucets, sinks, and toilets.
Safety Procedures: Familiarization with safety protocols to prevent accidents during plumbing work.
Duration of Training:
The duration of the NC I training typically ranges from 3 to 6 months, depending on the training provider.
Outcome of Training:
After completing the training, individuals are expected to be able to assist in simple plumbing installations and maintenance, including basic tasks such as fixing leaks, installing faucets, and ensuring proper drainage.
Level NC II builds upon the basic skills learned in NC I and involves more specialized and advanced plumbing techniques. This level is intended for individuals who want to further develop their plumbing knowledge and capabilities.
Key Competencies:
Installation of Water Supply and Distribution Systems: Installation of more complex water systems in buildings, including water pressure systems.
Drainage Systems: Installation of sewerage and stormwater drainage systems, and understanding proper waste disposal systems.
Plumbing System Layouts: Creating detailed plumbing system designs and ensuring compliance with local building codes.
Pipe Welding: Introduction to welding techniques used for joining metal pipes.
System Testing: Conducting tests to ensure plumbing systems function efficiently and are free from leaks.
Duration of Training:
Typically, the NC II training lasts from 6 months to 1 year depending on the training institution and learner progress.
Outcome of Training:
Graduates from NC II training will be able to perform more complex plumbing work, including the installation of systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. They will also be equipped with the skills to supervise basic plumbing activities.
Level NC III is for experienced plumbers who wish to specialize in higher-level plumbing work. This level involves advanced plumbing concepts and practices, such as working on large-scale installations and systems.
Key Competencies:
Installation of Advanced Plumbing Systems: Involves the installation and maintenance of complex systems such as fire protection plumbing, hot water systems, and industrial plumbing systems.
Design and Layout of Plumbing Systems: The ability to design and create plumbing systems for large buildings and facilities.
Piping Systems Installation: Installation of larger and more complicated piping systems, including underground and above-ground systems.
Project Supervision: Overseeing the work of other plumbers and ensuring all plumbing installations meet regulatory standards and are done safely.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting: More advanced skills in maintaining and troubleshooting complex plumbing systems.
Duration of Training:
Training at this level usually takes 1 to 2 years, depending on the training provider and the depth of the curriculum.
Outcome of Training:
Graduates from NC III will be qualified to handle more advanced plumbing tasks, supervise projects, and work on large plumbing systems for commercial and industrial installations. They will also be equipped to manage plumbing teams and ensure compliance with the Plumbing Code and regulations.
TESDA’s plumbing programs help develop competencies that are essential to ensuring safe water supply, proper sanitation, and efficient drainage systems across the country. Plumbing professionals are in demand not just for installation, but also for maintaining systems in compliance with local codes and standards.
Upon completing the TESDA Plumbing NC training, individuals can obtain National Certificates (NC) that provide a formal recognition of their skills. The certifications help individuals:
Secure jobs in both local and international plumbing projects.
Improve their job opportunities by demonstrating their competence.
Advance in their career by moving from installation-level work (NC I) to supervisory and management roles (NC III).
Plumbing NC I:
Basic tool handling and maintenance: A learner becomes skilled in safely using the hand tools and machines used in plumbing.
Introduction to plumbing codes: Learners will familiarize themselves with the NPCP, ensuring they comply with local laws while doing basic work.
Plumbing NC II:
Intermediate plumbing design: Trainees will be equipped with the knowledge to install, design, and maintain drainage and water supply systems in buildings.
Safety and efficiency: Plumbing NC II emphasizes safe work practices and effective, time-efficient installation techniques.
Plumbing NC III:
Mastery of advanced systems: Focus on large-scale installations like hot water systems, wastewater treatment, and industrial plumbing solutions.
Team leadership: Learners will be trained to supervise and manage plumbing teams, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.
Residential and Commercial Buildings: Plumbing work in homes and businesses, ensuring systems are working properly for safe water use and waste disposal.
Industrial Installations: Larger, more complex plumbing systems for factories and other industrial establishments.
Sustainable Plumbing Systems: Training also includes environmentally-conscious plumbing techniques such as rainwater harvesting and eco-friendly plumbing systems.
Given the international demand for skilled plumbers, TESDA’s NC training programs also ensure that graduates can work not just in the Philippines but abroad as well. Countries such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Singapore, and Australia require highly skilled plumbing professionals, and TESDA certifications are recognized in these countries.